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עברית
שלהם — meaning in English: their
shelhem · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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their
ומה
u'ma
שלהם
shelhem
מהם
mehem
בעיה
be'ayah
היחיד
ha'yaḥid
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neutral
very common
Usage
The Hebrew word 'שלהם' (shelhem) is commonly used in everyday conversation among native speakers, particularly when discussing possessions or relationships. For instance, you might hear it in a family setting when parents talk about their children's toys, saying, 'These are theirs,' referring to the children's belongings.
Synonyms & nuances
'שלהם' specifically denotes possession by multiple people, while the feminine form 'שלהן' (shelhen) is used to refer to a group of women. Choosing 'שלהם' over alternatives, like the more formal 'שייך להם' (shayach lahem), is common in casual contexts where simplicity and directness are favored.
Culture
'שלהם' (shelhem) is derived from the root word 'של' (shel), meaning 'of' or 'belonging to.' This relationship underscores the communal nature of Hebrew culture, where possessions are often discussed in relation to family and community, reflecting a sense of shared identity. Interestingly, the usage of 'שלהם' can also be found in biblical texts, where it emphasizes ownership and belonging.
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